Making Changes during the Year

You can change benefits only during the annual open enrollment period unless you have a Qualifying Status Change (QSC) event. If you have a QSC event, you have 31 days (unless otherwise noted) from the date of the event to increase coverage from individual to family or to add dependents. (A QSC event is not required for retirees to go from family to individual coverage or to cancel; however, if you cancel, you cannot re-enroll as a retiree). QSC events include, but are not limited to:

• Marriage or divorce
• Death of a dependent (60 days)
• Birth or adoption (60 days)
• Legal guardianship
• Change in a dependent’s eligibility
• Change in employment status for you or your dependents

If you have a QSC event and want to change your benefit elections:

1. Make the change online at the People First website within 31 days of the event. If your specific QSC event is not listed, call the People First Service Center or complete all forms authorizing the change. The People First Service Center must receive the required enrollment forms within 31 days of the QSC event. If the forms arrive after 31 days, your requested benefit change(s) will be denied and you will only be able to make changes during the next open enrollment period. You should make your elections within 31 days, unless otherwise noted, even if you do not yet have the supporting documentation.
2. Provide the supporting documentation to People First (e.g., marriage license, birth certificate, divorce decree, etc.) within 31 days of making the change.

If you enroll your eligible dependents during the year because of a QSC event, coverage begins on the first day of the month after the month in which People First receives a full month’s premium. Coverage always begins on the first day of a month and continues for the rest of the calendar year, as long as you pay premiums on time and you and your dependents remain eligible.